Boney James

Boney James

October 5th and October 6th

Robert James Oppenheim [born Sept. 1, 1961], better known to smooth jazz fans as Boney James, was born in Lowell, MA. He took up the saxophone at age 10, and by his late teens, had formed a fusion band which found some success opening for established acts like the Yellowjackets.

After touring for four years with Morris Day (playing keyboards), he went on the road with Randy Crawford where he earned his nickname: his per-diem for meals was so scant that one of his bandmates commented on his shrinking physique saying, “We’ll have to start calling you Boney James.”

James also worked with the Isley Brothers, Bobby Caldwell and Teena Marie before releasing his debut solo album, Trust, in 1992. Since that time, he has received countless awards and several Grammy nominations as one of the most successful smooth jazz artists.